TRIBUTES have been paid to Abingdon councillor Jeanette Halliday, who died on Friday.

Oxford West and Abingdon MP, Layla Moran tweeting last night said she was 'so sad' to hear about the fellow Lib Dem's death.

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She added: "She had too many positions over the years to name, but she served the residents of Fitzharris/Ock with unswerving dedication.

Herald Series: Jeanette Halliday and her husband Jim in 2014. Picture: Antony MooreJeanette Halliday and her husband Jim in 2014. Picture: Antony Moore

"She was unique, a real thinker, unafraid to challenge friend or foe.

"My thoughts are with her husband Jim and wider family, and her many many friends. We will miss her terribly."

Vale of White Horse District Council leader Emily Smith, tweeted in response: "Really sad about Cllr Jeanette Halliday's death."

She added: "Jeanette had been serving Abingdon on the Town Council since I was at school, had been mayor and a Vale District Cllr.

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"Much love for her on the doorsteps when she was re-elected last May.

"My thoughts are with Jim and their family."

Abingdon Town Council clerk Nigel Warner did not mention a cause of death is his tribute but sais she had 'been poorly since just after Christmas' and her death had come as a 'great shock to all her friends and colleagues'.

She was a town councillor from 1993 to 2003 and then since 2007 until her death.

Serving as mayor and leader of the council over the years, she also played a leading role in Abingdon-in-Bloom and the annual Christmas Lights display.  

Mr Warner described her as a 'hardworking and dedicated councillor' who was 'generous with her time with residents, councillors and staff'.

He added: "She brought great warmth and personality to meetings.

"She had an incisive and enquiring mind, not afraid to ask difficult questions but always tempering this with her caring and generous spirit and her great sense of humour. "

She leaves her husband Jim, who is also on the town council, son Mark, daughter-in-law Takako, and daughter Carole.

Due to coronavirus her funeral will be private but there are hopes for a later thanksgiving service to celebrate her life.

The Lib dem councillor represented Fitzharris Ock Ward on Abingdon Town Council.